EXPERTS are digesting the findings of this summer’s survey work on Wellington Monument, the National Trust revealed this week.

The trust has just received the full report on the iconic landmark after surveyors examined crumbling masonry on the 175-feet high structure.

With stones coming loose during the work, a perimeter fence was built to keep visitors away from the falling masonry.

Andy Mayled, National Trust property manager for Somerset Countryside, said: “For the first time stone masons and surveyors working for the trust were able to get up close and see and begin to understand what was happening to the thin outer layer of stone - and more importantly the core of the monument.

“They could also examine the previous repairs that have been carried out and how they are standing up to the elements of being on the highest point of the Blackdown Hills.

“This survey and report may have been commissioned by the Trust but it's everyone's monument, so we will be sharing the recommendations of this report with a wide range of people and organisations early in 2009.

“From the day this monument was conceived and built it's been a very public affair and we want that to continue.”

The trust said it could not give any details on the timescale or cost of the next stage of the project.